Teachers


Jake's Music Service's selective hiring practices ensure that only musicians of the highest caliber are hired to instruct. All teachers are required to undergo a rigorous audition in order to ensure the best and individualized education for every student. All lessons are given at the studios next to the store.


Teacher Biographies-


Arie Churlin is a percussions instructor who started playing drums over 14 years ago. Arie has played in jazz, marching, rock, concert, and symphonic bands and has studied percussions since he was six. In addition to his performing background, he also is an experienced recording technician.

Mari Dieter offers vocal instruction and has worked in Chicago since the 1980’s as a singer/songwriter/percussionist. Mari performs a variety of genres ranging from alternative and pop to jazz, blues and zydeco. She has also worked as a vocal coach in private and classroom settings. Mari received private instruction and her original music has been featured on several FM stations. She also works as a freelance recording artist.

Jake Fields provides instruction in saxophone, clarinet, and oboe and is a skilled musician who performs with numerous jazz ensembles, jazz and rock bands in the Chicago area. He studied privately with Jerry Burns, Chuck Burdelik, and Neil Dunlap. He attended Moraine Valley Community College and the Illinois Institute of Technology with major emphasis on music theory and application. Jake also has recorded with local and nationally known artists.

Edward Oberdieckis a percussion instructor who received a BA from Vandercook College of Music and has performed in various concert, jazz, symphonic, and rock bands as well as performing live on radio programs. Ed’s been recognized for his academic and performing achievements and offers a wide-ranging background for any percussion student.

Robb Pedraza has been teaching private and group piano lessons for 30 years ranging from students as young as 5 years of age to seniors. Robb teaches every style of music including classical, jazz, rock, blues, and gospel. He also incorporates music theory, ear training, piano technique, and practical methods in his lessons, so students can start playing music from the start. Robb has a BA in Piano Performance and Musicianship as well as Composition from DePaul University.

Bill Wolfson is our trumpet instructor and plays classical, jazz, and popular trumpet. He attended Mannes College of Music and privately studied with William Vacchiano, Mel Broiles, and John Ware. He has recorded with Galt MacDermott, Bernard Purdie, and Wilbur Bascomb.